The very simple fact is that some places in the United States of America are not accessible (either at all or in a reasonable time/manner) except by plane.

For people who cannot drive, taking a personal vehicle is not usually a viable option.

Trains are not available or are not a viable option outside of the Midwest or Northeast.

As several people have pointed out, the TSA is invading NYC and DC trains and subways, Tennessee highways, and beyond.

The TSA is starting to question potential flyers before letting them start the “security” gauntlet. Any personal information beyond what we’ve already allowed to be given up is none of their business (name, birth date, gender, destination). The only information they should be allowed to ask about or know should be related to the safety of that particular flight. Seriously, if the DMV clerk asked for what you’re going to do when arrive at your driving destination, would you tell them? No, because they do not need to know.

THE TSA ARE NOT LAW ENFORCEMENT. If they notice something illegal, they should report it, but all of these alleged “good catches” have never been proven to be a danger to flight safety. All they did was help true law enforcement catch a few drug dealers. That’s cool, but not their mandate. And it isn’t worth the Billions of Dollars wasted on the TSA so far.